Biorepository for studying kidney disease in individuals with ApoL1 mutations

Duke APOL1 Research Biorepository

Observational Duke University · NCT04160507

This study is trying to understand how certain genetic changes in the ApoL1 gene affect kidney disease in people of African ancestry by collecting samples from those with and without kidney problems.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment200 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorDuke University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Durham, North Carolina)
Trial IDNCT04160507 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

The Duke ApoL1 Nephropathy Biorepository focuses on understanding end stage kidney disease (ESKD) by collecting samples from individuals with and without kidney disease, particularly those of African ancestry. This observational study aims to explore the genetic factors, specifically mutations in the ApoL1 gene, that contribute to the higher prevalence of kidney failure in this population. By utilizing advanced techniques to create kidney-like cells from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), researchers hope to uncover the mechanisms linking these mutations to kidney disease. The study will include both affected individuals and healthy controls to provide a comprehensive understanding of the condition.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include self-identified African Americans, Afro-Caribbean individuals, and other black individuals with varying stages of kidney disease or healthy black adults aged 50 and older with no known history of kidney disease.

Not a fit: Patients with diabetic nephropathy or healthy controls with any form of kidney disease may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for end stage kidney disease in populations affected by ApoL1 mutations.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in understanding genetic contributions to kidney disease, particularly in populations with specific genetic backgrounds.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Majority of subjects recruited for this study will be self-identified African Americans, Afro-Caribbean and other black individuals. Study subjects will include individuals at various stages of kidney disease and those without any clinical evidence of kidney disease.
* Healthy black adults, age 50 and older with no known history of kidney disease will be recruited as controls

Exclusion Criteria:

* Black adult cases with diabetic nephropathy
* Healthy controls with kidney disease

Where this trial is running

Durham, North Carolina

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions End Stage Kidney DiseaseESKDAPOL 1 geneKidney Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.